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Users on %%site.name%% can create *groups* that other users can join.
Groups can be a great way to share information and entertainment with
a group of people who have a common interest or background; who work
together on a team; or who have a particular knowledge or skill.

You can find out about groups on the server on the
[Groups](%%action.groups%%) page. You can join a group by clicking on
the "Join" button either in the group list or on the group's home page.

Starting a new group
--------------------

You can start a new group for friends and colleagues. Note that all
groups are free for anyone to join.

To start a new group, use the [new group](%%action.newgroup%%) tool
and fill out the form. Describe your group as best you can if you want
people to be able to find it.

When choosing the nickname for your group, try to keep it short. The
nickname is sometimes included in messages to and from the group, so
the less chars the better. Try using acronyms for organizations, or
airport codes for places (like 'pdx' instead of 'portland').

Sending messages to a group
---------------------------

You can send a message to a group using the syntax "!groupname"
anywhere in the message. If you have more than one group named, the
notice will go to each group. Only members can send notices to a
group, and groups do not respond to direct messages (DMs).

You can also select the group from the "To:" drop down when posting.

You can make a group message private by clicking the "private" button
before posting.

Receiving messages
------------------

New group messages will appear in your inbox, and will also come to
your phone or IM client if you've set them up to receive notices.

Private groups
--------------

The administrator can make a group private. For a private group, all
notices will marked as private for group members only. Also,
administrators will have to approve all new members to the group.

Private groups are visible in the group directory.
